Method and apparatus for mixing grow media and addmixtures with a polymer for spraying onto surfaces for the growing of plants and the management of water

ABSTRACT

The invention taught is a method and apparatus to mix a special polymer, hot water or other hot water material containing additives and a special mixture of dry growing substances mixed in a particular way so that they may be applied to structures such as to ceilings, walls, and any grade of vertical slants, commercial roofs, courtyards, indoor and outdoor applications. The purpose is to coat any surface and grow any plant for any reason be it erosion control, beautification of an area. The invention would help in reforestation after fires and such. This invention has a wide range of applications and so it is impossible to limit it to just one of these applications. Green parking lots and green areas that before could not be made green is just one area for the invention

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED DOCUMENTS

This application is a continuation of pending U.S. application Ser. No.16/271,758, filed on Feb. 8, 2019, the content of this application ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application isalso related to US provisional application 62/465813 is included hereinin its entirety by reference and physical copy.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention is in the field of green roofs, living roofs orother surfaces on which it is desirous to grow vegetation. The inventionalso handles water management and erosion control through the absorptionand holding of water via a special mixture of a soil like media and aproprietary polymer (The mixture of soil like media and a polymer willhereafter be called a Matrix or the Matrix). The present invention isalso in the field of growing produce, grasses, flowers and any otherplant capable of growth. The invention is in the field of germinatingand growing flora and fauna on any surface by the application of amixture of a polymer, a soil like mix and hot water we will use a roofor other surface as one preferred embodiment but this embodiment is notindented to limit the invention as it has many other uses

2. Discussion of the State of the Art

According to Wikipedia a green roof or living roof (or other surface) isa roof or other surface of a building that is partially or completelycovered with vegetation and a growing medium, planted over a waterproofor other membrane can be seen in FIG. 9 involving multiple layers. Thesemultiple layers include bit are not limited to a Vegetation layer 915. Agrowing medium layer 916, a filter layer 917, a drainage storage layer918, an insulation layer 919, a waterproof membrane layer 920, aprotection board 921 and the roof deck 922. All of these layers have aserious weight limitation as the structures themselves must hold theweight of the growing media and the various layers of material in thegreen roof system or other surface system. Container gardens on roof orother surfaces, where plants are maintained in pots, are not generallyconsidered true green roof or other surfaces, although this is debated.Roof or other surface top ponds are another form of green roof or othersurfaces which are used to treat grey water.

Green roof or other surfaces and surfaces serve several purposes for abuilding or landscape, such as absorbing rainwater, providinginsulation, creating a habitat for wildlife, increasing benevolence anddecreasing stress of the people around the roof or other surface orother surface by providing a more aesthetically pleasing landscape, andhelping to lower urban air temperatures and mitigate the heat islandeffect. They effectively utilize the natural functions of plants andtheir associated bacteria to filter water and treat air in urban andsuburban landscapes. There are two types of green roof or other surface:intensive roof or other surfaces, which are thicker, with a minimumdepth of 12.8 cm (5.0 in), and can support a wider variety of plants butare heavier and require more maintenance, and extensive roof or othersurfaces, which are shallow, ranging in depth from 2 cm (0.79 in) to12.7 cm (5.0 in), lighter than intensive green roof or other surfaces,and require minimal maintenance.

The term green roof or other surface may also be used to indicate roofor other surfaces that use some form of green technology, such as a coolroof or other surface, a roof or other surface with solar thermalcollectors or photovoltaic panels. Green roof or other surfaces are alsoreferred to as eco-roofor other surfaces, oikosteges, vegetated roof orother surfaces, living roof or other surfaces, greenroofs or othersurfaces and VCR (Horizontal Vegetated Complex Partitions).

There are several problems with the installation and maintenance ofgreen roof or other surfaces on the market today. The installation meanslack the ability to properly cover a roof or other surface with agrowing media at an even thickness and that is economically viable andlight weight. Roof or other surfaces on commercial and residentialbuildings have many vents, air conditioners, sky lights and obstructionsthat make installation of a green roof or other surface difficult. Thecurrent installation methods lack the ability to cover the entire roofor other surface. The weight of a green roof or other surface growingsystem is of particular concern also. Most green roof or other surfacesystems are simply too heavy. The various layers of a green roof orother surface system can have up to 13 different layers. Adding theweight of 13 layers with the growing media and water retention canrender the system to heavy for a lot of structures.

What is clearly needed is a method of green roof or other surface orgreen surface installation that can alleviate all of the currentproblems associated with current green roof or other surface systems orother green enhanced structures system installations. The inventor hasinvented a green roof or other surface and green surface installationmethod and system that has overcome many of the problems stated relatingto a green roof or other surface installation system or a green surfaceinstallation system that others thought impossible. The inventor hasformulated a perfect blend of soil like growing ingredients mixed withhis proprietary polymer. The soil like mixture can contain but is notlimited to bark, peat moss, Finland Peat moss, worm castings, coconutfiber, natural organic latex, perlite, vermiculite, deactivatedcharcoal, biochar, specially processed biochar, silica sand or amorphoussilica, and an aggregate rock of any size. Hereafter in this patentspecification this mixture will refer to as “a Matrix or the Matrix”.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Insert after claims are drafted

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the process by which the invention isimplemented in one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram of the gun used to spray the matrix mixtureaccording to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 contains images of possible nozzles used to spray matrixaccording to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is side view of a possible gun used to apply the matrix accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are side vies of a possible gun used to apply the matrixaccording to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a possible application process accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of several examples of grids to be filledwith a matrix according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view a grid filled with a matrix according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the typical layers of a living roofaccording to the prior art.

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a driveway with grids installed (prior tofilling with matrix) according to one embodiment of the invention

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a driveway with grids installed filledwith a special matrix according to one embodiment of the invention

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention involves mixing a polymer with various growingmedia and or mediums. The media is a mixture of specialized growingmaterials, other proprietary materials and substances and some mildfertilizers which will be named later in this specification. Theinventor has solved the problem of how to get these tons of drymaterials up and onto the top of a roof or other surface and mix themwith a special bio-friendly polymer such that they can be laid down inan even layer thereby creating a growing roof or other surface in themost economically friendly way possible. There are many embodiments ofthe invention. The illustration of this particular embodiment does notlimit this invention to other embodiments of the invention describedherein or not.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the process by which the invention, inone embodiment, is accomplished. The system consists of a:

-   Dry materials tank or hopper element 100 for pre-blended matrix    ingredients.-   a hot water heater element 102.-   a conduit 103 for communication hot water.-   An Ackerson type of metering apparatus 104 for dry goods. The type    of mixer is immaterial. It’s basically an apparatus that can meter    dry goods very accurately-   Element 105 is an IHORT Mixer 5000 (which stands for International    Horticultural Technologies, Inc.) The blending pump can be any pump    capable of blending and pumping material-   a concrete type pump or a moyno type pump 106-   Roof or other surface delineation point 107. Those items on the    upper side are considered on the roof or other surface. Items under    this line are considered on the ground unless otherwise indicated.-   Hose or conduit 108 carries mixture to pump 111.-   Element 109 is a polymer pump which pumps constant temp polymer to    mixer/pump 111.-   Polymer container 110 is at a constant temperature.-   IHORT Mixer 6000 is element number 111 and can be any pump capable    of mixing a soil like mixture previously mixed with hot water    through conduit 108 and then mixing a polymer from conduit 102 and    then pumping that mixture to an application apparatus.-   Element 112 is a hose or conduit connecting 111 with application    apparatus 113. 113 Is the application apparatus or gun.-   Element 114 is a tripod for gun or application apparatus to rest    according to one preferred embodiment of the invention.-   115 is the nozzle of the gun/application apparatus-   Nozzle 115 controls the direction and thickness of the matrix    emitted from gun 113.-   Elements referred to as conduits, pipes or hoses that communicate    various mixtures-   according to one embodiment of the invention are numbered as element    numbers 103, 116, 117, 118, 108, 120, 119, 112 and 113.

FIG. 1 is a view of the process of dispensing the matrix onto a roof orother surface. In this embodiment the word roof or other surface is usedhowever any other surface may be represented here. When the inventorrefers to the word roof or other surface he is also referring to anyother surface that intended to be grown on. Element 100 contains all ofthe dry ingredients that will make up the matrix according to oneembodiment of the present invention. The pre-blended dry ingredients arein a hopper above ribbon mixer 104. Hot water and pre-mixed liquidadditives are heated in hot water heater 102 and added to blender 104via conduit 103 along with the pre-mixed dry ingredients.

In mixer 104 the pre-mixed dry and the premixed liquid ingredients aremixed into a slurry. The mixed slurry is conveyed to a second ribbonblender 105 via conduit 117 to continue the mixing process to form asemi liquid matrix suitable for pumping. The slurry is pumped viaconduit 118 to a concrete type pump 106. It should be noted here thatany other type of pump capable of pumping the slurry up and onto a roofor other surface or other surface may also be used. It should also benoted here that any of the pumps or equipment may be substituted forother equipment that may serve the same purpose. The invention is notlimited by the type of equipment in the drawings or text.

The slurry is then pumped from pump 106 via conduit 108 up and onto theroof or other surface 107 and into element 111 IHORT mixer 6000. Element111, IHORT mixer 6000, is any pump capable of pumping the slurry. Thepolymer container element 110 holds polymer which may be heated to aconstant temperature near 120 for this embodiment. The polymer containerelement 110 may be a 55 gallon drum or any other type of containersuitable for the operation at hand. Elements 110, 109, 111, 112, 108,114, 113, 115 and 120 may be contained in a mobile vehicle for transportand application across larger areas. This vehicle could be an ATV likevehicle with a bed suitable for containing the elements of the operationfor mixture and application of the matrix. Polymer 110 is fed intopolymer pump 109 where it is pumped via conduit 120 into the IHORT mixer6000 element 111. From pump 111 the mixture of slurry and polymer arepumped via conduit 112 into gun/application apparatus 113. Gun 113 maybe any type of apparatus that is suitable for spraying or the dispensingof the final matrix. Application apparatus 113 may be set on tripod 114for stability. Nozzle 115 at one end of spray gun/application apparatus113 may take on different shapes depending on the desired thickness ofthe final matrix layer on the roof or other surface. The matrix may alsobe laid down in layers if desired. The final matrix may also bedispensed through a simple hose of the concrete variety. Other methodsof final delivery of the matrix onto the roof or other surface or othersurface will be discussed in later paragraphs of the instantspecification.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of an installation person 202 flattening thematrix 208 (if needed) during polymerization to insure a flat layer onthe roof or other surface. Typically the application apparatus of FIG. 1will leave a flat enough surface for our purposes however if furtherflattening is desired element 206 can be used. The matrix 208 isdispensed 210 through apparatus 203 onto the roof or other surface.Matrix 208 may be mixed with polymer prior to arrival at the applicationapparatus 203. Matrix 208 may also be mixed in apparatus 203 in section211 of the application apparatus 203. Mixture of hot water, polymer andpremixed soil like media may be delivered through hose 204 whilepreheated polymer may arrive via hose 205. Mixing would then occur insection 211 (internal mixing elements not shown) of applicationapparatus 203 and then dispensed as matrix spray 210. Once thepolymerization begins the installation person may flatten the matrixaccording to the desired thickness. The matrix 208 can be seen beforeflattening in FIG. 2 . The flattened matrix 209 may be seen right belowand in front of the flattening apparatus 206. Element 206 is aflattening apparatus and may have a design or pattern embossed thereonenabling the installation person to impart a pattern or design onto thesurface of the final matrix.

Element 204 and 205 are hoses or conduits that may serve differentpurposes. In one embodiment of the invention high pressure air isinjected into the matrix/polymer stream thereby achieving a splatteringeffect as the matrix is dispensed. As the application apparatus 203splatters the matrix onto the roof or other the matrix is stillpolymerizing. As the splattered bits of matrix hit the roof or othersurface or other surface they join and flow to some degree with othersplattered bits of matrix forming a uniform layer of matrix. Matrix isglue like and sticks to every surface until polymerization is complete.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of another embodiment of a matrix dispensingapparatus for the delivery of the matrix onto a roof or other surface201 of Fig. Element 300 is a rubberized nozzle attached to metal coupler301 which will connect to a standard concrete pump type hose. In anotherembodiment the inventor has designed special plastic disposable couplers301 and disposable hoses or conduits that connect in a manner similar toconcrete hose connections. The idea is to use the disposable couplersand hoses to dispense the matrix onto a roof or other surface or othersurface without having to clean out couplings and hoses during or afterthe dispensing of the matrix. This makes the process more economical andfaster. Matrix application apparatus 302 is similar to 300 except thatelement 302 has the ability of mixing the slurry of soil like growingmedia, hot water with hot polymer right at the pipe 304. The slurry ofsoil like growing media, hot water may arrive via a hose (not shown)which attached to coupler 305. The hot polymer may arrive at valve 303mixing with slurry and out at 302.

FIG. 4 is also an illustration of a possible form factor of agun/application apparatus 400 to dispense the matrix onto a roof orother surface according to one embodiment of the invention.Gun/apparatus 400 is unique in its ability to spray or spatter a matrixof the density and fluidity of the matrix of the present invention. Inone embodiment element 409 is a compressed air conduit. Element 410 is aconduit feeding the matrix under pressure in its final form (mixed withpolymer) before being exposed to the atmosphere. The matrix is fed intothe gun 404. Matrix fills cylinder 411 in gun 404. Once the cylinder isfull the handles 406 and 403 are opened. Handle 403 opens the cylinderfull of matrix and handle 406 opens the compressed air. In oneembodiment the matrix fills nozzle 402 to the end and then trigger 408is pulled which blasts a volume of air out of nozzle 402 through conduit407, carrying the volume of matrix filled into nozzle 402 with it. Oncethe trigger is pulled, the matrix (under pressure), fills nozzle 402again and the process is repeated thereby creating a spray of matrix.Once the matrix hits the roof or other surface or other surface it willcoalesce with the matrix previously sprayed and the matrix being sprayedcurrently thereby creating a method of creating a layer of matrix on aroof or other surface or other surface. This method or the straight hosemethod of dispensing the matrix of the present invention will cover andflow around any vents, skylights, air conditioners or any otherobstructions there might be on the roof or other surface or othersurface to be covered with the matrix.

FIGS. 5A-5B are examples of a dispensing gun/nozzle according to oneembodiment of the present invention. Gun 61 has a special chamber 62wherein a tornado of air 52 aids in the dispensation of the matrix. Gun50 is an example of the airflow taking place in chamber 62 of gun 61. Inthis embodiment the matrix slurry mixed with the polymer are pumped intothe gun at pressure through conduit 30. Air is also pumped into gun 61at conduit 70. Due to certain physical features on the interior ofchamber 62 the high pressure air pumped in at conduit 70 takes on aswirling effect on the outside of the interior of chamber 62 such thatthe matrix is floated in the center of this swirling air column. Theeffect of the air swirling around the matrix inside chamber 62 reducesthe friction of passage of the matrix. This increases the speed at whichthe matrix is leaving the nozzle 60 creating a spray at the end onnozzle 60.

Gun 50 shows what the action would be inside chamber 62 of gun 61. Thematrix/polymer is introduced at conduit 56 and into the gun via conduit55. Air comes in through valve 51. The air takes on its swirling effectlike a tornado (shown in elements 52, 53 and 54) along the outside ofthe interior of chamber 57 of gun 50. This as stated above reduces thefriction and increases the speed of the matrix such that it forms aspray as it comes out of nozzle 60. Once the matrix is sprayed out andis exposed to other matrix previously sprayed, the matrix sprayed beforeand after coalesces into one continuous layer of matrix of a suitableand predictable thickness that is suitable for growing all sorts ofplants.

FIG. 6 shows the application process 61 according to one embodiment ofthe present invention. Nozzelman 62 is applying in a spray 67 which arethe growing ingredients that have previously been mixed with the polymerthrough hose 63 and nozzle 66. Nozzelman 62 is laying down a layer ofmatrix 65 on a flat surface and on a vertical surface. The polymer thatis mixed with the growing ingredients is a very sticky formula designedto adhere to vertical surfaces. In some embodiments a plastic grid 64may be used on vertical or horizontal surfaces to lend rigidity to thefinal layer of matrix being applied. As referred to in thisspecification carbon fiber or fiberglass or any other strengtheningfibers may also be added to lend rigidity to the final layer of matrixlaid down upon the roof or other surface or other surface. Element 64may also be any type of grid as can be seen in FIG. 7 . These grids maybe laid down and attached on horizontal and vertical and any slant inbetween. Any of the spraying apparatus or application apparatus in thisspecification may be used to fill these grids.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of several examples of grids to be filledwith a matrix according to one embodiment of the present invention. Grid708 or 709 would be a good grid for use in a heavy traffic area that auser would still want to have grass. Grid 706 is an example that wouldbe suitable for a roof or a wall. Grid 706 will bend around curvaturesas well so that the matrix may be sprayed into this grid along a curvedsurface for artistic purposes or other purposes. Grid 707 is anotherexample of a tile like grid that would bend around surfaces or be usedon the ground for erosion control such as being laid down on a unstablehillside then sprayed with our proprietary matrix and then planed with adeep rooted plants to keep the hillside stable. Grid 708 is also a heavyduty interlocking grid that can be used for laying down and then beingfilled with our matrix and used for growing. Grid 711 would be apreferred grid, in one embodiment, to use as a surface to fill with ourmatrix and to be cut in squares or rectangles to be used in ones housefor a pet to urinate or defecate on and light enough to take outside andclean of hose off. In one embodiment catnip is mixed in with theadmixtures while mixing the polymer with growing ingredients. This makesthis portable grass mat your cat’s favorite place to pee. Grid issimilar to a grid used to lay out on a driveway or such to take heavytraffic. The process goes like this. The surface is prepared to onesliking depending on the weight of the traffic. A user may use gravel orbase rock underneath and then lay a grid like tile down to be filledwith the matrix. The grid may be interlocking tiles or rolled out from aroll of grid like material. The user may also choose to lay the matrixdirectly on the surface to be grown.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view a grid 812 filled with a matrix 814according to one embodiment of the present invention. One can see theoutline of the grid underneath the matrix. The covering of the top ofthe grid with a depth of matrix 813 is important as grass or other floraor fauna will be grown on and in this grid and it is preferable that theactual structure not be seen unless intended to be so. Grid 812 is theperfect grid for driveways, parking lots and football arenas and areaswhere heavy traffic will be frequent.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the typical layers of a living roofaccording to the prior art. FIG. 9 involves multiple layers to a greenroof. These multiple layers include but are not limited to a Vegetationlayer 915. A growing medium layer 916, a filter layer 917, a drainagestorage layer 918, an insulation layer 919, a waterproof membrane layer920, a protection board 921 and the roof deck 922. This example is of aminimal number of layers. Other systems in the prior art have as many as13 layers to 15 layers and some more than that. The weight of all ofthese layers along with the weight of the vegetation growing medium,which most manufacturers use actual dirt and rocks, is considerable assaid before and can lead to structure failure or at the very least limitthe type of structures these types of systems can be used on. Theinventor has invented a system and matrix that will hold more water forlonger saving on water costs. The weight for example, polyurethaneprepolymers comprising a polyol and an isocyanate (e.g., diisocyanates)may be used in a polymer matrix. The resulting polymers form foams andhydrogels that can comprise many times their dry weight in water (e.g.,up to 90% water).

FIG. 10 is an example of a driveway that the owner decided to expandinto part of the existing yard so their kids could have a bigger yard.In this embodiment interlocking tiles 102 are snapped together and laidout where the concrete driveways use to be. The concrete 1001 has beenremoved for this purpose. The owner then hires the company that appliesthe matrix using the same method as seen in FIG. 1 except this is not aroof and the process goes much more smoothly on the ground. The ownerorders a custom mix of matrix for their particular purpose such as whatseed is pre-infused, what level of give they would like, how hard theywould like the matrix. Remember that any of the parameters discussed inthis specification may be adjusted at will to make a customized matrixfor a plethora of uses and can be adjusted within the process. Grids ortiles are rolled or laid out and the matrix is infused into the grids1002 using one of the same methods as discussed previously in thisspecification. Once watered the matrix will germinate the seeds and growthe grass seen in FIG. 11 . One can see the line of new and old grass onthe right of the drawing. The new grass being element 1102. The ownermay just want matrix with no grid so that it is softer and the trafficis light. This matrix has memory foam properties and will return to itsoriginal shape once weight is removed. The owner may now drive on thenew grass driveway park on it or anything else. This driveway will becheaper than concrete, more environmental friendly. Even when it israining and the rest of the yard is soaked the driveway will still holdtraffic and not sink due to the rigidity of the tile like structureunderneath.

Any Soil or Soil Like Mixtures Mixed With a Polymer and Hot Water andAdditives are Referred to Herein as “The Matrix”

In this invention we will be referring to a Matrix, a growing media ormedium, dry growing ingredients and a polymer and a liquid or liquidssuch as hot water or other liquid additives such as fertilizer, mineralsand or micronutrients . Once the growing media and other ingredientsliquid or dry are mixed with a polymer we will be referring to themixture as a matrix. In one embodiment a special hydrophilic polymer(discussed in more enabling detail later in the specification) mixedwith growing ingredients and admixtures are herein after referred to asa matrix. In certain aspects sponge-like matrix materials are providedwhich are porous, retain water and can be used to maintain plant growth.Matrix materials, for instance, can comprise an admixture of ahydrophilic polymer, such as polyurethane, and one or more of thefollowing materials. The below materials are exemplary of soil or soillike mixtures; Bark, peat moss, biochar, worm castings, coconut fiber,natural organic latex, perlite, biochar, vermiculite, deactivatedcharcoal, silica, amorphous silica or any other ingredient that promotesgrowth. An aggregate of any size according to particular applicationscan and does grow plants as well. In fact this special polymer mixedwith just plain rock will also hold and retain water quite wellaccording to experiments conducted by the inventor.

In one embodiment a roof or other surface is covered with a matrixcomposed of a hydrophilic or other polymer having sponge-likecharacteristics that is porous, retains water and can be used tomaintain plant growth, For example, one or more soil like components canbe mixed with polymer subunits prior to polymerization to provide asponge-like matrix. Additional components and admixtures can beincorporated into a matrix according to the embodiments (either before,during or after the polymer subunits have been polymerized). A matrixaccording to the invention is substantially porous thereby maintainsubstantial water and air content within the matrix. For example, amatrix can comprise an average porosity of between about 10 and 300pores per inch or any other number pores per inch according to theapplication. A matrix can also be designed to be below or above thoseporosity numbers mentioned above of between about 10 and 300 pores perinch.

In certain aspects, a sponge-like matrix according to the embodiments ismechanically resilient and can return to its original shape followingmechanical compression (e.g., the matrix can be defined as memory foam).In still further aspects, a sponge-like matrix is substantiallynonfriable. For example, a matrix according to the embodiments can, insome aspects, be cut without a significant portion of the matrixcrumbling-away. The memory foam aspect is very important when creating asurface where heavy traffic will take place. Non-friability will insurelittle loss of matrix over time in a high traffic embodiment.

In one embodiment, the matrix comprises a polyurethane polymer, such asa polymer of a polyol and an isocyanate (e.g., a diisocyanate). Thesesubunits once polymerized form a cross-linked web of polar polymerstrands that can maintain water content. In certain aspects, the matrixcan be defined by the size of the molecules between the cross linkingbonds. For example, in certain aspects, the polymer can be defined bythe equivalent weight per NCO, such as a polymer comprising anequivalent weight of between about 100 and 1,000 per NCO (e.g., about300, 400 or 500 to about 700).

As detailed herein, in certain aspects, isocyanates form part of ahydrophilic polymer matrix according to the invention. The isocyanatecan be, without limitation, methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI),toluene diisocyanate (TDI), hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) and/orisophorone diisocyanate (IPDI). For example, a MDI polymer may be formedfrom 2,2′-MDI, 2,4′-MDI, 4,4′-MDI or a mixture thereof. Monomeric orpolymeric MDI can, for example, be reacted with polyols to formMDI-based polyurethanes. Likewise, in certain aspects, the polymer is aTDI-based polymer, such a polymer formed by 2,4-TDI, 2,6-TDI or amixture thereof. For instance, the polymer may be formed from a mixtureof a 2,4-TDI and 2,6-TDI at a ratio of about 80:20, 70:30, 60:40 or65:35.

In further aspects, a hydrophilic polymer is formed from polyolcomponent molecules, such as polymeric polyols (e.g., a polyether orpolyester). Thus, in certain aspects a hydrophilic matrix comprises apolyether and/or polyester linkages. The polyol component can, incertain aspects, be characterized by a molecular weight (MW) of betweenabout 250 and 10,000 (e.g., about 1,000, 1,500, 2,000, 2,500, 3,000,3,500, 4,000, 4,500, 5,000, 6,000, 7,000, 8,000 or 149,000).

In certain embodiments, a sponge-like matrix comprises one or moreamorphous silica component(s) mixed into a grow like media referred toabove. In some aspects, the amorphous silica is dispersed homogeneouslythroughout the polymer matrix. The amorphous silica component can, forexample, be vermiculite, biotite, phlogopite, mica, perlite, hydratedobsidian, diatomaceous earth or a mixture thereof. In certain aspects,the amorphous silica is hydrated silica, such as hydrated vermiculite orperlite. In still further embodiments, expanded silicas may be used,such as expanded vermiculite and/or perlite.

As detailed herein a sponge-like matrix according to the invention maycomprise additional components. For example, in certain cases, thematrix can comprise components that support plant cell survival and/orgrowth (e.g., fertilizers or minerals). Such components can be bark,peat moss, biochar, worm castings, coconut fiber, natural organic latex,perlite, vermiculite, deactivated charcoal, biochar, silica and anaggregate of any size.

In still further aspects, components such as surfactants can be addedthat facilitate or alter matrix polymerization. Examples of additionalcomponents that can be comprised in a matrix include, withoutlimitation, a nitrogen source (e.g., an ammonium or nitrate salt), aphosphorus source, a pH adjusting agent (e.g., lime to reduce pH), anatural or synthetic fiber, a water holding/releasing agent, asurfactant, an antioxidant, a pesticide, a herbicide, an antibiotic, aplant hormone (e.g., a rooting hormone), a soil conditioning agent(e.g., clay, diatomaceous earth, crushed stone, hydrogels, or gypsum) oran anti-fungal agent.

In yet a further embodiment, a matrix according to the inventioncomprises plant or plant parts. For example, the matrix in oneembodiment can comprise a seed, seeding, a cutting or a callus culturefrom a plant. A plant or plant part embedded in an impregnated tile orother surface or associated with a matrix may be a monocot(monocotyledon) or a dicot (dicotyledon). In certain aspects, the plantis a plant that can be vegetatively propagated.

In one embodiment, a thin pad of matrix is formed into a square orrectangle and comprises any type of grass grown on a thin pad to be setin a structure where pets are housed so that they may do their businesson a natural grass pad that will absorb their urine/pee and such.

In another embodiment a plant or plant part of an ornamental plant(e.g., a poinsettia, impatiens or geranium), a landscaping plant, anherb, a garden vegetable or a fruit or nut tree. In one embodiment,after a roof or other surface or other surface is coated with thematrix, a roof or other surface or other surface may be enabled toreceive a part, section or plug of the matrix. In further aspects, asingle plant or living portion thereof is provided in each piece (e.g.,section or plug) of matrix covering the roof or other surface. Thus, aplurality of plants can be provided, each in a separate plug of matrix,wherein the plurality of matrix plugs and plants can be supported onpreformed openings (not shown). Preformed openings in the matrix can bemade with a special plug tool after polymerization of the matrix on theroof or other surface or other surface is complete. In anotherembodiment a plug form may be pressed into the matrix while it is stillpliable during polymerization. In another embodiment this plug form maybe part of the flattening apparatus 206 of FIG. 2 .

In still a further embodiment the invention provides a method forgrowing a plant comprising positioning a plant in a roof or othersurface lined/covered with a matrix according to the embodiments andallowing the plant to grow. Thus, a plant is positioned in the matrixsuch that the matrix can provide water and nutrients to the plant toallow plant growth and/or survival. For example, a plant part can bepositioned in a cavity in the roof or other surface covered with amatrix, such that the plant is in contact with the matrix (e.g., aportion of a plant or cutting can be embedded in the matrix).

In still further embodiments a slurry according to the inventioncomprises additional components either dispersed or dissolved into theslurry. For example, the slurry can comprise a nitrogen source, aphosphorous source, a surfactant, a pesticide, an herbicide, anantibiotic or an antifungal agent and other elements described furtherin this specification.

wide varieties of proprietary hydrophilic polymers are known to theinventor and can be used to form the sponge-like matrix according to theinstant invention. Polymers can be formed from prepolymer subunits thatare formulated de novo.

For example, polyurethane prepolymers comprising a polyol and anisocyanate (e.g., diisocyanates) may be used in a polymer matrix. Theresulting polymers form foams and hydrogels that can comprise many timestheir dry weight in water (e.g., up to 90% water).

Surfactants

Surfactants, Surface-active materials, can, in some cases, be added toprepolymer compositions. Addition surfactants can be used to helpcontrol the size and shape of the foam cells by stabilizing the gasbubbles formed during nucleation. Surfactants can also aid incontrolling the amount of cell opening and adjust shrinkage or reducedpermeability.

A wide range of polymers may be used in a polymer matrix according tothe invention. Suitable surfactants include anionic, cationic,dipolar-ionic (zwitterionic), ampholytic and nonionic surfactants andemulsifiers. For example, the surfactant can be block copolymers ofoxyethylene and oxypropylene or a silicone glycol copolymer liquidsurfactant. Silicone-polyether liquid copolymer surfactants, forexample, are known to produce foams with small, fine cells. Certain ofthese silicone glycol copolymer liquid surfactants went into hydrophilicfoam-forming compositions, the result is foams having rapid wet out.Surfactants are not, however, required for hydrophilic polymers.

Additional Components

A matrix according to the invention may comprise one or more additionalcomponents. Such components can be deposited onto a matrix afterpolymerization or may be added to slurry prior to or during matrixpolymerization. In particular, a matrix may comprise fertilizers and/ornutrients that support plant health. Such fertilizers and/or nutrientmay, for example, be dissolved in an aqueous buffer or provided aspellets that form part of a slurry during matrix formation. For example,ammonium or nitrate salts can be incorporated as a nitrogen source forplants. Likewise, a suitable phosphorus source can be included. In someaspects, the pH of the matrix environment may be adjusted by adding anacid, a base or a pH buffering agent.

In still further aspects components can be added to alter the mechanicalproperties of a matrix material. For example, as described above, AS canbe added to the matrix. In certain other aspects, natural or syntheticfibers such as carbon fibers can be added to provide additionalstructure to the matrix.

Still further components can be added to maintain the health of plantsembedded in the matrix including antioxidants, pesticides, herbicide(i.e., to prevent undesired plant growth in the matrix), antibiotics,plant hormone and antifungal agents. For example, if rooted plants aredesired in a matrix material, plant rooting hormones may be added to thematrix. Likewise, if contamination with microorganisms is a potentialproblem antimicrobial or antifungal compounds can be added to thematrix. The matrix may also be infused with food grade hydrogen peroxidefor control of bacteria either before polymerization or afterpolymerization. Hydrogen may also be produced via hydrolysis andintroduced into the matrix for control of bacteria and other harmfulagents. A hydrogen producing algae may also be introduced either beforepolymerization or after polymerization into the matrix thereby creatinghydrogen naturally and naturally controlling harmful bacteria. Inanother embodiment hydrogenised water may be a part of the liquidadditives introduced before polymerization controlling bacteria in thatfashion.

For example antifungal agent for use according to the invention includetebuconazole, simeconazole, fludioxonil, fluquinconazole,difenoconazole,4,5-dimethyl-N-(2-propenyl)-2-(trimethylsilyl)-3-thiophenecarboxamide(silthiopham), hexaconazole, etaconazole, propiconazole, triticonazole,flutriafol, epoxiconazole, fenbuconazole, bromuconazole, penconazole,imazalil, tetraconazole, flusilazole, metconazole, diniconazole,myclobutanil, triadimenol, bitertanol, pyremethanil, cyprodinil,tridemorph, fenpropimorph, kresoxim-methyl, azoxystrobin, ZEN90160,fenpiclonil, benalaxyl, furalaxyl, metalaxyl, R-metalaxyl, orfurace,oxadixyl, carboxin, prochloraz, trifulmizole, pyrifenox, acibenzolar-5-methyl, chlorothalonil, cymoaxnil, dimethomorph, famoxadone, quinoxyfen,fenpropidine, spiroxamine, triazoxide, BAS50001, hymexazole, pencycuron,fenamidone, guazatine, and cyproconazole.

Anti-microbials that may be used according to the invention includevanillin, thymol, eugenol, citral, carbacrol, biphenyl, phenylhydroquinone, Na-o-phenylphenol, thiabendazole, K-sorbate, Na-benzoate,trihydroxybutylphenone, and propylparaben.

Plants and Plant Parts

A wide range of plants can be maintained in the growth matrix accordingto the invention. As used herein the term “plant” refers to plant seeds,plant cuttings, seedlings and in vitro plant cultures as well as matureplants. For example, bedding plants, flowers, ornamentals, vegetables,trees and other container stock can be provided in the substrates.Plants may be rooted in the matrix or may remain un-rooted. In certainaspects, the plants comprised in a matrix are callused.

Substrates can comprise vegetable crops or a living portions thereofsuch as artichokes, kohlrabi, arugula, leeks, asparagus, lentils, beans,lettuce, beets, bok choy, malanga, broccoli, melons (e.g., muskmelon,watermelon, crenshaw, honeydew, cantaloupe), brussels sprouts, cabbage,cardoni, carrots, cauliflower, okra, onions, celery, parsley, chickpeas, parsnips, chicory, peas, Chinese cabbage, peppers, collards,potatoes, cucumber, pumpkins, cucurbits, radishes, dry bulb onions,rutabaga, eggplant, salsify, escarole, shallots, endive, soybean,garlic, spinach, green onions, squash, greens, sugar beets, sweetpotatoes, turnip, Swiss chard, horseradish, tomatoes, kale, turnips, anda variety of herbs.

Likewise, fruit and/or vine crops can be provided such as apples,apricots, cherries, nectarines, peaches, pears, plums, prunes, quincealmonds, chestnuts, filberts, pecans, pistachios, walnuts, citrus,blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, cranberries, currants,loganberries, raspberries, strawberries, grapes, avocados, bananas,kiwi, persimmons, pomegranate, pineapple, and other tropical fruits. Inshort any living plant, fungus or other life form that grows naturallyin soil can be grown in the matrix of the present invention.

In certain preferred aspects, ornamental plants (or living portionsthereof) are provided in substrate according to the inventions. Forexample, a matrix can comprise a plant such as an agastache, angelonia,antirrhinum, argyrantheum, bacopa, begonia, bidens, calibrachoa, coleus,crossandra, impatiens, diascia, fuchsia, gaura, gazania, geranium,helichrysum, ipomoea, kalanchoe, lamium, lantana, lavender, lobelia,nemesia, daisy, scaevola, oxalis, petunia, hibiscus, poinsettia, salvia,torenia, verbena, or viola plant. In still further aspects, the plantcan be a cactus or other succulent.

The following examples are included to demonstrate preferred embodimentsof the invention. It should be appreciated by those with skill in theart that the techniques disclosed in the examples which follow representtechniques discovered by the inventor to function well in the practiceof the invention, and thus can be considered to constitute preferredembodiments for its practice. However, those of skill in the art should,in light of the present disclosure, appreciate that many changes can bemade in the specific embodiments which are disclosed and still obtain alike or similar result without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe invention.

Example 1 Production of a Plant Growth Matrix

For formulations of plant growth substrates a slurry is initially mixedwith polymer solution. A slurry of hot water and a soil like media.Nutrients (e.g., nitrogen and phosphorus sources) and other additionalcomponents such as surfactants are added to the slurry as desired.Organic growth materials may also be added at this time.

The slurry is then mixed with polyurethane pre-polymer subunits andmechanical mixing is commenced to provide a homogenous slurry solution.

Total polymer volume typically exceeds two-fold relative to the slurryvolume. The resulting sponge-like polymer can be dispensed onto a roofor other surface with special proprietary equipment and processes. Forexample, individual plugs of polymer matrix can be arranged inpreprepared openings in the surface of a matrix field. Optionally, themolded polymer can be further processed to the desired size of a plug orfurther impregnated into a like shaped receptacle in the matrixdispensed onto a roof or other surface.

Plants or plant cuttings are embedded into the polymer matrix, such thatmoister and nutrients maintained in the sponge-like substrate areprovide to the plant material. Plants can thus be maintained in thepolymer matrix over extended periods without desiccation.

1. A system for applying a growing media and polymer mixture to surfacesfor the growth of all plants capable of growth comprising; a hoppercapable of holding a pre-blended soil-like soil like media; a hot waterheater; a first ribbon blender for blending the pre-blended soil-likemedia with hot water from the hot water heater to form a blended growingmedia mixture; a pump capable of pumping the blended growing mediamixture from the first ribbon blender; a reservoir of polymer maintainedat a constant temperature; a polymer pump capable of pumping the polymerfrom the reservoir; a mixer capable of mixing the polymer and theblended growing media mixture together; and an application apparatuscapable of applying the mixed polymer and blended growing media mixtureto a surface.
 2. The system of claim 1 wherein the application apparatusis a spraying apparatus.
 3. The system of claim 1 wherein the mixedpolymer and blended growing media mixture applied to the surface absorbsand holds more water weight that than that of its own weight per squarefoot.
 4. The system of claim 1 wherein the surface is a roof or othersurface.
 5. The system of claim 1 wherein the surface is a wall.
 6. Thesystem of claim 1 wherein the surface is any flat surface intended to beused to grow.
 7. The system of claim 1 wherein the surface is anyslanted surface intended to be used to grow.
 8. The system of claim 1wherein additives enhancing growth are added to the blended growingmedia mixture.
 9. The system of claim 8 wherein the additives enhancinggrowth are a fertilizer.
 10. The system of claim 1 wherein the surfacemay be prepared with a grid of material capable of lending rigidity tothe application of the mixed polymer and blended growing media mixture.11. The system of claim 1 wherein the mixed polymer and blended growingmedia mixture is flattened upon application to the surface by man ormachine.
 12. The system of claim 1 wherein the mixed polymer and blendedgrowing media mixture is flattened upon application to the surface byman or machine rendering a pre-designed pattern.
 13. The system of claim1 wherein the surface is the subject of erosion control measures. 14.The system of claim 1 wherein the surface is a pre-prepared grid of tilelike structures to be filled with the mixed polymer and blended growingmedia mixture in order to create an area capable of growing and capableof supporting heavy weights.
 15. The system of claim 14 wherein the areais a parking lot.
 16. The system of claim 14 wherein the area is adriveway.
 17. The system of claim 14 wherein the area is a fire lane.18. The system of claim 14 wherein the area is the subject of erosioncontrol measures.
 19. The system of claim 1 wherein additives enhancinggrowth are added to the blended growing media mixture and said additivesare at least one of a fertilizer, minerals, micronutrients, anantifungal agent such as tebuconazole, simeconazole, fludioxonil,fluquinconazole, difenoconazole,4,5-dimethyl-N-(2-propenyl)-2-(trimethylsilyl)-3-thiophenecarboxamide(silthiopham), hexaconazole, etaconazole, propiconazole, triticonazole,flutriafol, epoxiconazole, fenbuconazole, bromuconazole, penconazole,imazalil, tetraconazole, flusilazole, metconazole, diniconazole,myclobutanil, triadimenol, bitertanol, pyremethanil, cyprodinil,tridemorph, fenpropimorph, kresoxim-methyl, azoxystrobin, ZEN90160,fenpiclonil, benalaxyl, furalaxyl, metalaxyl, R-metalaxyl, orfurace,oxadixyl, carboxin, prochloraz, trifulmizole, pyrifenox,acibenzolar-5-methyl,chlorothalonil, cymoaxnil, dimethomorph,famoxadone, quinoxyfen, fenpropidine, spiroxamine, triazoxide, BAS50001,hymexazole, pencycuron, fenamidone, guazatine, and cyproconazole.